I
WANT YOU
to spend more of your money right here!
Economists call it the "multiplier effect." The best thing you can do for our local economy is to spend money - right here in Mason, Michigan - Hometown U.S.A.
Buy locally. It's good for our
community and good for our future.
Please show your support for making the Mason area a better place to live and work by returning this completed pledge form to the Mason Area Chamber of Commerce.
I/WE PLEDGE to shift at least 5% of our out-of-the-area spending to businesses within the Mason Area.
Business, Organization or Individual: ______________________
____________________________________________________
Contact Person: _______________________________________
Address: _____________________________________________
City: ________________________________________________
State: _____________________ Zip Code: _________________
Business or Home Phone: ________________________________
Fax: ________________________________________________
E-mail: ______________________________________________
Website: _____________________________________________
Mason Area Chamber of Commerce
148 E. Ash Street
Mason, MI 48854
(517) 676-1046
Not convinced about signing the pledge? Read the article below:
"During this time of economic uncertainty, the worst thing we can do is abandon our local economy. Instead, let's work together to make the Mason area into Michigan's economic oasis."
Trying to not spend money seems to be top of mind for individuals as well as
businesses these days. This comes as no surprise, since we're all bombarded
with minute-by-minute updates and commentary about the economic downturn; news
items which are often sensationalized for maximum impact.
While we wait for government actions to have a beneficial effect, it is
important to realize that individuals are not powerless during this time of
uncertainty. The good news is that our community is blessed in many ways. For
example, our local banks and financial institutions are strong because they have
maintained sound business practices for many years. A more diverse regional
economy is emerging as well. Every individual can contribute to improving our
local economy while strengthening their own personal financial position.
Of course, if you've lost your job or significant business customers, you'll have to reduce your spending. However, if you're working or business is not too bad -- at least not any worse off than a couple of years ago -- why sit on your hands? For example, many things, such as building and landscaping services are real bargains right now. Prices on houses and even new vehicles have come down. Retailers and suppliers are offering great sales. So, if you're in the market for a new car or dining room set, now is probably a very good time to buy.
Don't put your money in a mattress. The United States depends on a robust consumer economy. If consumers like you aren't buying, things will continue to get even worse economy-wise. Instead, position your household or business or organization for the future.
Regardless of whether you're cutting back on spending, or spending wisely with an eye to the future, choosing to shop locally makes sense. You will save money on gasoline, support local jobs, and keep sales tax dollars in our state. During this time of economic uncertainty, the worst thing we can do is abandon our local economy. Instead, let's work together to make the Mason area into Michigan's economic oasis.
Bringing outside dollars into our community is often just as easy as extending
an invitation. The Mason area has a wonderful variety of shopping
opportunities, so invite your friends and family to come here for a shopping
trip. For example, the Mason area is well known as a great place to buy
antiques. Now we have even more choices for shopping for collectibles.
Visitors really enjoy shopping at the truly unique gift shops we have.
In an effort to encourage citizens to shop locally, The Mason Area Chamber of
Commerce has a number of programs under its "Mason Values" brand. For example,
MACC Gift Certificates make great gifts, bonuses, prizes, and recognition
awards. Since they are mostly spent with members, this will keep dollars in our
area. We encourage businesses and individuals to purchase MACC Gift
Certificates, use the member-to-member Mason Values card for discounts
www.masonchamber.org/valuecard.htm,
and participate in other Chamber programs to support the local economy.
Supporting the local economy is also about sharing. Everyone has the power to
share. Volunteer your time to help a local non-profit organization. Donate items
you no longer need to Chamber members like Goodwill, Habitat for Humanity,
Capital Area Community Services, or your favorite group. The Chamber itself has
both volunteer opportunities and accepts in-kind and monetary contributions to
help advance our mission to improve our community's quality of life and standard
of living.
Use your individual power to support our local economy. Get your business or
organization more involved in the community. It's just good business to take
care of your friends and neighbors first. Support them, because they're the
ones who are most interested in supporting you.